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USNS SPICA
USNS Spica is one of Military Sealift Command's six Combat Stores Ships and is part of the 35 ships in the Naval Fleet Auxiliary Force. Combat Stores Ships - T-AFS Description: Six combat stores ships are operated by Military Sealift Command to provide supplies to U.S. Navy ships at sea operating for extended periods of time. Features: Combat stores ships provide underway replenishment of all types of supplies including fresh, frozen and chilled food; dry provisions; repair parts; clothing; and mail using tensioned cargo rigs and CH-46 Sea Knight (or commercial equivalent) helicopters. The technique enables a fleet or naval formation to remain at sea for prolonged periods of time. USNS Spica (T-AFS 9) approaches
USS Harry S. Truman Harry S. Truman is on a regularly scheduled deployment, conducting missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 2nd Class John L. Beeman. Naval Fleet Auxiliary Force The 35 ships of Military Sealift Command's Naval Fleet Auxiliary Force are the lifeline to U.S. Navy ships at sea. NFAF ships provide fuel, food, ammunition, spare parts and other supplies to keep the U.S. Navy fleet at sea, on station and operating at the highest possible tempo. NFAF ships include underway replenishment oilier, combat stores ships, ammunition ships, ocean-going tugs and two hospital ships which are kept in reduced operating status--ready to be activated when needed. All NFAF ships are crewed by civil service mariners. Small Navy departments that previously handled communications and signaling are being replaced by civilian mariners in a program that will be complete by FY 2002.
CH-46 Sea Knight Link Note: The editor of this web site was at the helm of the USS Power during Special Sea Detail (1963- 64) when we came along the side of ships like the SPICA, carriers and tankers. It is an experience I will never forget. |
